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17 August 2016 · Motoring Tips & Advice

How to Check Your Oil Levels | Phil Gilbert Hyundai

Your car, like any machine, needs each cog and portion to function properly so that the whole thing works to its full potential. The oil in your needs to be changed regularly and just as important, its levels need to be checked regularly. If there is too much or too little oil in the tank, it could cause some serious damage to the engine. Checking your car’s oil levels is easy and only takes a few minutes, and if you avoid this, it will end up costing you much more in the long run.

We at Phil Gilbert Hyundai care about the way your car functions. That’s why we offer a range of services, as well as videos on maintenance tips, including one on how to check your oil levels.

So how do you check your oil levels?

Have the Right Oil

Before you even bother checking, make sure to have the right oil handy. It is recommended that you keep around a 1 litre bottle of the right oil, according to your manufacturer’s recommendations. Keep it in your car so that you always have it when you might need it.

Park on Level Ground

To get an accurate reading, it is important to have the car parked on even ground. Make sure the emergency brake is on and your engine is off. Take a look under the bonnet and make sure it’s propped up so it doesn’t fall on you while you’re doing your work. Definitely stay away from the hot engine, and let the oil settle for a minute or two after you turn off the engine.

Pull the Dipstick Out

It’s best if you use protective gloves before you begin. Locate the dipstick, which you can recognise due to its looped end sticking out of the engine block. Pull it out and then wipe it clean with a dry cloth or a paper towel.

Put the Dipstick Back

Replace the dipstick for a few seconds and then take it back out so you can check to see where the oil levels made their mark.

Where Should the Level Be?

You want the mark to show up somewhere between the minimum and maximum marks on the dipstick. The max is closest to the handle, and the min is closest to the shaft. If it’s too low, you’ll need to top it up. 

Fill Her Up

Find the oil filler cap and remove it. If you have a funnel, use it to gentle poor the right amount of oil into the tank. Most oil bottles have a scale that will show you how much you’ve already used so you don’t fill up too much. Repeat the process of checking the levels once you’ve finished to ensure that you got it right.

Finish the Job

Replace the oil filler cap and the dipstick and make sure they are secure. Tidy up any marks or bits of oil strewn about and call it a day!

For more information on your oil, like how to know when it’s time for an oil change, read about it on one of our previous posts here.

For a professional job for all your car servicing needs, consider Phil Gilbert Hyundai in Sydney. Enquire online today.

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